World Digestive Health Day: how to be a good pooper!

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By The Gut Health Doctor Team

Dr Megan Rossi in a lab looking through a microscope

Ever experienced pooping anxiety? Just like our GM (Gut Microbiota, the trillions of microbes living inside us), our bowels are unique to each of us.

And just like us, they have their own ‘personality’ too. Some are pretty laid back, while others can be a little more sensitive, shy and rely on routine.

If you’re staying safe at home with the family or housemates right now and feeling uneasy about ‘doing your thing’, you’re not alone! But it’s worth knowing that ignoring the urge to go allows more time for the water to be absorbed, which can mean a hard and dry poop that can lead to constipation – nobody wants that.

My top tip to make you more comfortable: spray some poo-pourri in your loo before you go and the oily mix will trap the smell! All based on simple science.

For World Digestive Health Day I’m teaming up with Poo-Pourri to share my top tips for how to be a good pooper on lockdown and beyond.

Top tips for becoming a good pooper

  1. Eat a diverse range of plant-based foods with plenty of fibre, as well as staying hydrated.

  2. Regularly move your body, whether it’s power walking, dancing or yoga.

  3. Try to establish a relaxing morning bowel routine. Give yourself 5-10 mins to sit and relax on the loo, without pressure or straining.

  4. Take up the squat position. An old shoebox or stool does the trick.

  5. Pop some Poo-Pourri in your loo, especially when you’re outside your comfort zone. It can be a game-changer (anecdotally speaking!)

 

Full disclosure: this post is part of a sponsored partnership with Poo-Pourri to combat poop anxiety and help us be better poopers! A mission that’s very close to my heart.

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